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Sidelined by injury, Campbell-Brown makes the most of her late season extended holiday

Sidelined from competition in September by injury, Veronica Campbell-Brown made the most of her forced vacation, enjoying some downtime traveling and relaxing. In her latest IAAF Online Diary, the ace sprinter also admits that it was bit strange being a spectator, rather than a participant, in the this year's Samsung Diamond League finals.

"Since the 2006 season, this was the first time I did not compete in the month of September, now, like then, the reason was health/injury related. No athlete likes to be sidelined, however, I have been making sure that I get enough rest as well as take time out to enjoy things I cannot revel in during the competitive season.

"Back in Clermont, Florida after over a month in Europe, it was time to catch up on my bowling skills. For the cricket lovers who are my fans, I refer here to the "other" bowling. LOL!

"I also returned to the tennis court to play a couple games, I must say that I enjoyed every bit of it. I walked away from it with a deeper appreciation for those who can master this sport as the speed, agility and power required to play effectively is simply amazing. I also watched the finals in the Diamond League series staged in Zurich and Brussels, I must say it felt a bit strange to be a spectator rather than a participant but did enjoy being able to relax and enjoy the high level competition.

"From Florida, Omar and I went to Atlanta for a weekend. There we relaxed and visited for the first time the Georgia Aquarium which is considered the world’s largest. With over 10 million gallons of water and an amazing collection of beluga whales, whale sharks and bottlenose dolphins among other species, this attraction should be a must see for all visitors to the "capital of the South".

"As a product of the Carifta Games, I had the joy of seeing a lot of islands in my early teens touring as a member of the Jamaican junior team. One island I never got the chance to see was the Turks & Caicos so Omar and I spent a glorious week there enjoying the warmth provided by the people and the sunshine. We will definitely return!